Search For Armed Burglary Suspect Near Sioux Falls

sioux falls, sd

A massive search is underway northwest of Sioux Falls for an armed burglary suspect.

Minnehaha County Sheriff Mike Milstead says homeowners who live near 260th Street and 471st Avenue interrupted a burglary in progress Saturday morning. They called 911 and as the suspect ran away, a deputy who responded saw he was armed with a shotgun.

Once authorities arrived on scene, they found a bag that held burglary tools and shotgun shells, so they are working under the assumption the gun is loaded.

The man ran into a slough near the home, which is just north of the entrance to McCrossan Boys Ranch. Milstead says due to the clothing the man is wearing, he blends into the landscape, making him hard to spot.

At this point, a state plane is flying over the scene. In addition, members of the Minnehaha County Sheriff's Department, troopers with the South Dakota Highway Patrol and Sioux Falls Police Officers are taking part in the search.

Milstead says they are confident they have the suspect surrounded. Still, they are encouraging anyone who lives in the area to lock their doors. McCrossan Boys Ranch is locked down as a precaution.

KELOLAND News has a crew on the scene and we'll bring you the new developments as they are reported.